BENGALURU (India) – Sichuan's local media and fans call her Dinghai Shenzhen. The Chinese expression describes someone who steadies the ship in turbulent waters. There could hardly be a more appropriate description of China's decorated veteran forward Gao Song, who will spearhead WCBA champions Sichuan Yuanda Meile's quest to regain their title at FIBA WBL Asia 2026.
At 34, Gao is no longer simply an experienced member of the rotation. She continues to produce at a high level, combining her 1.90 M (6'2") frame with a reliable outside shot, rebounding ability and the experience of countless big games.
The 2025-26 season served as another reminder of her importance.
Gao averaged 12.8 points and 8.6 rebounds as Sichuan captured their third title in four years, surviving a five-game Final against Shanxi. And when several of the team's leading players were away on international duty, Gao showed she could shoulder an even greater load.
In August this year, at the 2026 National Women's Basketball Championship, she delivered perhaps her clearest statement yet. Gao exploded for 23 points and 14 rebounds in the Final as Sichuan defeated Shandong 81-75 to claim a fifth consecutive national championship.
It is the sort of performance that has become familiar from one of the most decorated programs in Chinese women's basketball.
Gao also knows exactly what it takes to win in the WBLA having been an integral part of Sichuan becoming the first-ever WBLA champions two years ago in China. During that victorious campaign, she averaged 8.7 points and 6.3 rebounds, including an 18-point, 10-rebound performance against the Fujitsu Red Wave.
The most interesting part of Gao's game is that she is not simply a traditional power forward.
Her ability to shoot from outside forces defenders to make difficult choices. Close out too aggressively, and she can attack the space. Give her room and she has shown she can make opponents pay from three-point range. Meanwhile, her size and positioning make her a dependable presence on the glass.
That becomes particularly valuable on a Sichuan roster packed with offensive weapons.
While the stars around her may change, Gao Song remains one of the players who gives Sichuan its identity — and one of the biggest reasons the WCBA champions should not be taken lightly.
Every championship team needs its stars. In Gao Song, Sichuan have theirs.
FIBA